2024 Asia Foundation Development Fellow

Achala Samaradivakara is the co‐founder and managing director of Good Market. Since its inception in 2012 with 32 rural communities, Good Market has evolved into a powerhouse supporting over 2500 small businesses. Achala is a leader and mentor to rural communities in Sri Lanka, recognized globally as Good Market spans over 90 countries. She spearheads the Catalyst 2030 Sri Lanka chapter, serves on various boards and committees, and is a guest lecturer and mentor at local universities. Her achievements include Young Entrepreneur of the Year (2017), Upcoming Brand of the Year (2018), and Social Entrepreneur of the Year (2018). Cosmopolitan has recognized her as an under‐35 young women changemaker in Sri Lanka. She holds degrees in Economics, a master’s degree in Business Administration, a diploma in rural development, and certifications in sustainable standards.